Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Beginning Medication for ADHD

Medication is an effective treatment for the symptoms of ADHD.
Commonly prescribed medications include: Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall, Dexedrine and Strattera.
Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that has been FDA approved for ADHD.
Most of these medications are available in short-acting and extended release.
There is also a patch available for the treatment of ADHD.
Although medication is effective in reducing symptoms, it is not a cure and should be used in conjunction with a complete treatment plan and be monitored by your physician.

When deciding if medication is right for you, it is important to take the following into consideration:

Family Lifestyle: will you need medication all day or do you want medication you can take only when needed for focus and concentration?

Family Beliefs: How does your family feel about medication?
Are they against it, where you will feel uncomfortable discussing it with them?
Is this something that will be a factor in your decision?

Family Medical History: Is there a history of heart disease or other conditions that should be considered?
If so, this should be discussed with your physician.

Personal Medical History and Current Medications: Will medication negatively interact with your present medications?
Do you have any conditions that may interfere with your ability to take medications for ADHD?

Will it matter if medication is taken with food or on an empty stomach?

What are the side effects? What side effects require that you call the doctor? What side effects require that you stop taking the medication immediately?

Will the medication have an impact on blood pressure or heart rate?

Are you able to have any alcoholic beverages while on the medication?

Once you decide on and receive your medication, you should take the time to read the insert included with the package.
The more you understand about your medication, the more you will be able to manage symptoms, keep track of effectiveness and determine if this particular medication is right for you.